Leuven implements heat measures for sports camps: 'Let children exercise under trees or in the canteen'

As temperatures soar, the city of Leuven, Belgium, is taking proactive steps to protect children participating in sports camps. The city is urging organizers to prioritize safety and well-being amidst the heatwave.

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We encourage the organizers of sports camps to let the children move in the shade as much as possible. This can be in the canteen, the stands, or under the trees.

Organizers are being advised to seek out shaded areas for activities, such as under trees, in canteens, or under stands, rather than allowing prolonged exertion in direct sunlight. The emphasis is on creating a cooler environment for the young athletes.

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We ask to include more drink and rest breaks, and we are handing out sunscreen.

Furthermore, the city is encouraging more frequent drink and rest breaks to prevent dehydration and heat-related illnesses. Sunscreen will also be distributed to participants. For outdoor sports like athletics, where surfaces can become extremely hot, specific attention is being paid to utilizing all available shaded spots.

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On an athletics track, it can get very hot. We ask to use all shaded areas. There is a large stand where sports can take place. The steeple pit on the athletics track, used during a steeplechase, can be filled with extra water for cooling or water games.

"We are doing everything we can to ensure the camps continue in a responsible manner," stated Alderman of Sport, Christophe Stockman. He also suggested innovative ways to keep children cool, such as filling the water jump in an athletics track with water for cooling or water games.

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We are doing everything we can to ensure the camps continue in a responsible manner.